Are you tired of watching your beloved mums wither away, despite your best efforts to care for them? You're not alone! Many gardeners and plant enthusiasts struggle to keep these beautiful flowers thriving. At Botanic Beam, we're here to help you uncover the reasons behind your mums' demise and provide you with expert advice to ensure their survival.
Table of Contents
Overwatering: The Silent Killer
One of the most common mistakes mum owners make is overwatering. Mums are sensitive to too much moisture, which can cause root rot and ultimately lead to their downfall. Check the soil regularly by sticking your finger into the soil up to the first knuckle. If the soil feels dry, it's time to water. If it's already moist, wait another day or two before watering again. A general rule of thumb is to provide about 1 inch of water per week, either through rainfall or irrigation.
Underwatering: The Opposite Extreme
On the other hand, mums need consistent moisture to thrive. If the soil is too dry for an extended period, the plants will suffer. Be sure to water your mums regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. A good way to determine if your mums need water is to observe their leaves. If they start to droop or wilt, it's a sign that they're thirsty.
Lack of Sunlight
Mums need plenty of sunlight to produce those gorgeous blooms. If your mums are not receiving at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day, they may not thrive. Consider moving them to a sunnier location or providing supplemental lighting, such as grow lights, to ensure they receive the light they need.
Inadequate Soil Quality
The soil quality can make or break your mums' success. Mums prefer well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. If your soil is heavy clay, sandy, or lacking organic matter, it may not provide the necessary nutrients for your mums. Consider amending the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to improve its structure and fertility.
Temperature Extremes
Mums are sensitive to temperature fluctuations. If the temperature drops below 40°F (4°C) or rises above 80°F (27°C), it can cause stress to the plants. Keep your mums away from drafts, air conditioning vents, and heating radiators to maintain a consistent temperature between 50°F (10°C) and 70°F (21°C).
Pests and Diseases
Pests and diseases can quickly kill your mums. Common pests that target mums include aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. Regularly inspect your plants for signs of infestation, such as yellowing leaves, sticky residue, or tiny eggs. Fungal diseases, like powdery mildew and root rot, can also affect mums. Treat any infestations or infections promptly with organic or chemical controls, depending on the severity of the issue.
Transplant Shock
When transplanting mums, it's essential to handle the roots with care. Mums have a sensitive root system, and rough handling can cause transplant shock. Gently remove the plant from its container, taking care not to disturb the roots. Trim any circling roots, and plant the mum at the same depth as it was previously. Water thoroughly after transplanting, and keep the soil consistently moist during the first few weeks.
Inadequate Fertilization
Mums are heavy feeders and require regular fertilization to produce plenty of blooms. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer (20-20-20) at half the recommended strength. Feed your mums every 1-2 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid overfertilizing, as this can cause more harm than good.
Lack of Pruning
Pruning is crucial for maintaining the health and appearance of your mums. Remove any dead or damaged leaves or stems, as these can attract pests and diseases. Pinch off the tips of the stems in the spring to encourage bushy growth and more blooms. After the blooming season, cut back the stems to about 3-4 inches from the ground to prepare the plants for winter.
By understanding and addressing these common mistakes, you can create a thriving environment for your mums. With proper care and attention, your mums will reward you with vibrant blooms and a long, healthy life. Remember to stay vigilant, monitor your plants regularly, and make adjustments as needed. Happy planting!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do my mums always die?
This is a common concern for many plant enthusiasts! There could be several reasons why your mums are not thriving. Overwatering, underwatering, lack of sunlight, poor soil quality, and pests are just a few potential culprits. In this article, we'll dive deeper into the possible causes and provide you with expert tips to help you grow healthy and vibrant mums.
What are the most common mistakes people make when growing mums?
Newbie mistakes are easy to make, but they can be avoided! Some common errors include not providing enough drainage, not pruning regularly, and neglecting to fertilize. By being aware of these potential pitfalls, you can take steps to prevent them and create a more nurturing environment for your mums.
How often should I water my mums?
Watering frequency depends on a few factors, such as the soil type, climate, and pot size. As a general rule, check the soil daily, and water only when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Be cautious not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot and other issues.
What's the ideal soil for growing mums?
Mums prefer well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. A mix specifically designed for flowering plants or a general-purpose potting soil with added perlite or vermiculite can help prevent waterlogged soil and promote healthy growth.
Do mums need full sun or partial shade?
Mums generally require at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight per day. However, if you live in a hot and dry climate, providing some afternoon shade can help prevent scorching. Be sure to observe your plants and adjust their placement accordingly.
How do I prune my mums to encourage blooming?
Pruning is essential for promoting bushy growth and abundant blooms! Pinch off the tips of your mum stems in the spring to encourage branching. Later, trim back the stems by about one-third to promote flower production. Regular pruning will also help maintain a neat and compact shape.
What's the best way to fertilize my mums?
Feed your mums with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer (20-20-20) once a month. You can also use a fertilizer specifically formulated for flowering plants. Avoid overfertilizing, as this can damage the roots and lead to weak growth.
Why are my mums not blooming?
There could be several reasons why your mums aren't blooming. Check if they're receiving enough sunlight, water, and nutrients. Make sure you're not overwatering or underwatering, as this can affect flower production. Also, consider pruning your mums regularly to promote blooming.
How do I protect my mums from pests?
Common pests that target mums include aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. Keep an eye out for signs of infestation, such as yellowing leaves or sticky residue. Use neem oil or insecticidal soap to control infestations, and introduce natural predators like ladybugs to your garden.
Can I grow mums in containers?
Absolutely! Mums thrive in containers, provided they have good drainage and are at least 6-8 inches deep. Choose a pot that complements the mature size of your mum variety, and don't forget to fertilize regularly.
How do I overwinter my mums?
In colder climates, mums need protection from harsh winter conditions. Cut back the stems to about 3-4 inches from the ground, and add a layer of mulch to insulate the roots. You can also dig up the roots and store them in a cool, dark place until spring.
Can I propagate mums from cuttings?
Yes, you can! Take 3-4 inch stem cuttings from the tips of your mum stems in the spring or summer. Remove lower leaves, dip the cut ends in rooting hormone, and plant them in a moist potting mix. Keep the soil warm and humid until roots develop.
What's the difference between hardy and non-hardy mums?
Hardy mums are perennial varieties that can survive winter temperatures, while non-hardy mums are annuals that typically don't come back the following year. If you live in a region with harsh winters, choose hardy mum varieties for better success.
Why do my mums have yellow leaves?
Yellow leaves can be a sign of overwatering, underwatering, or nutrient deficiency. Check the soil moisture, and adjust your watering schedule accordingly. Also, consider fertilizing your mums with a balanced fertilizer to provide essential nutrients.
Can I grow mums indoors?
While mums typically thrive outdoors, you can grow them indoors with the right conditions. Provide bright, indirect light, and maintain a consistent temperature between 65-75°F (18-24°C). Be sure to water and fertilize carefully, as indoor conditions can be more challenging.
How do I divide and transplant mums?
Divide and transplant your mums in the spring or fall when the plant is dormant. Dig up the roots, gently separate the clumps, and replant the divisions in well-draining soil. Water thoroughly, and keep the soil moist until the new plants establish.
What's the best way to deadhead mums?
Deadheading, or removing spent blooms, encourages your mums to produce more flowers. Simply snip off the faded blooms at the base of the stem, and dispose of them. This will direct the plant's energy towards producing new flowers rather than seed production.
Can I grow mums in poor soil?
While mums can tolerate some soil imperfections, they'll struggle in extremely poor soil. If your soil is heavy clay, sandy, or lacking nutrients, consider amending it with organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure. This will improve drainage, structure, and fertility.
How do I prevent mum diseases?
Preventing diseases is key to growing healthy mums! Maintain good air circulation, remove weeds, and dispose of infected plants. Also, avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot and other issues. Inspect your plants regularly, and take action promptly if you notice any signs of disease.
Can I grow mums in a greenhouse?
A greenhouse provides an ideal environment for mums, with controlled temperatures, humidity, and light. Make sure to provide adequate ventilation, and monitor temperature and humidity levels to prevent overheating and disease.
Why do my mums have weak, leggy stems?
Weak, leggy stems can be caused by insufficient light, overfertilization, or inadequate pruning. Ensure your mums receive sufficient light, and prune them regularly to promote bushy growth. Avoid overfertilizing, as this can lead to weak, leggy stems.
How do I store mum tubers over the winter?
Store mum tubers in a cool, dark place (around 40-50°F or 4-10°C) with good air circulation. Keep the tubers dry, but not completely dry, and check on them periodically to ensure they're not rotting. Replant the tubers in the spring when the soil can be worked.
Can I grow mums in a cold frame?
A cold frame provides a protected environment for mums, extending the growing season. Make sure the cold frame is well-ventilated, and the temperature remains between 40-50°F (4-10°C) during the winter months.
Indoor Plant Care A-Z
Adiantum Fragrans
Aechmea Blue Rain
Aechmea Fasciata
Aeschynanthus Marmoratus
Aeschynanthus Radicans Gesneriad
African Mask
African Spear
African Violet
Air Plant
Alocasia Amazonica
Alocasia Araceae
Aloe
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera Barbadensis
Angel Wings Cactus
Anthurium Andraeanum
Anthurium Crystallinum
Arabian Coffee
Areca Palm
Aroid Palm
Arrowhead Ivy
Arum Lily
Asparagus Densiflorus 'Sprengeri'
Asparagus fern
Asparagus Setaceus
Aspidistra Elatior
Asplenium Antiquum
Asplenium Nidus
Athyrium Filix-Femina
Austrailian Ivy Tree
Austrocephalocereus Dybowskii
Austrocylindropuntia subulata
Azalea Plant
Baby Doll Ti
Baby Rose
Baby Tears
Baby Toes
Baby's Tears
Bamboo Palm
Banana Palm
Banana Plant
Banana Tree
Barbados Aloe
Begoniaceae Maculata
Bengal Fig
Benjamin Tree
Benjamin's Fig
Beringin
Bilbo Cactus
Bird Of Paradise
Bird's Nest Fern
Bird's Tongue Flower
Birds Nest Fern
Blue Pothos
Blue Rain Bromeliad
Blue Rain Plant
Blue Sansevieria
Blue Torch Cactus
Bonsai Ficus
Boston Fern
Boston Fern
Boy Flower
Brighamia insignis
Bromeliad
Buddha's Hand
Bunny Cactus
Burrageara Orchid X Oncidium
Burro's Tail
Butterfly Palm
Cabbage on a Stick
Cabeça-branca
Cactus
Caladium Lindenii
Caladium Magnificum
Calathea
Calathea Marantaceae
Calla Lily
Cambria
Cambria Orchid
Canna Leaved Strelitzia
Cape Jasmine
Cape Primrose
Cast Iron Plant
Cathedral Cactus
Cathedral Plant
Cereus Peruvianus
Ceropegia Woodii
Ceropegia Woodii 'Marlies'
Chain of Hearts
Chain of Pearls
Chamaedorea Elegans
Chinese Ape
Chinese Money Plant
Chinese PLant
Chinese Taro
Chlorophytum Comosum
Christmas Cactus
Christmas Kalanchoe
Cladophora
Cladophora Ball
Climbing Asparagus
Codiaeum Variegatum Var. Pictum
Coffea Rubiaceae Arabica
Coffee Bean
Coffee Plant
Common Purslane
Common Yucca
Cordyline Fruticosa
Corn Plant
Crab Cactus
Crane Flower
Crassula Arborescens
Crassula Hobbit
Crassula Ovata
Croton
Crystal Anthurium
Ctenanthe
Ctenanthe Pilosa Golden Mosaic
Curly Locks Cactus
Curtain Fig
Cycas Revoluta
Cylindrical Snake Plant
Date Palm
Day Flower
Delicious Monster
Devil's Ivy
Devil's Tongue
Devils Backbone
Dieffenbachia Araceae
Donkey's Tail
Dracaena
Dracaena Fragrans
Dracaena Fragrans Golden Coast
Dracaena Fragrans Janet Craig
Dracaena Fragrans Steudneri
Dracaena Magenta
Dracaena Marginata
Dracaena Sanderiana
Dragon Plant
Dragon Scale Alocasia
Dragon Tree
Dumb Cane
Dwarf Arrowhead Vine
Dypsis Lutescens Chrysalidocarpus
Easter Cactus
Elephant Bush
Elephant Ear
Elephant Yucca
Emerald Palm
English Ivy
Entangled Hearts
Epiphyllum Anguliger
Epiphyllum guatemalensis
Epipremnum Aureum
Epipremnum Aureum Neon
Epipremnum Pinnatum
Epipremnum Pinnatum Aureum
Eternity Plant
Euphorbia Enopla
Euphorbia Trigona
Euphorbia Trigona Rubra
Eves Pin Cactus
False African Violet
False Shamrock
Ficus Benghalensis 'Audrey'
Ficus Benjamina
Ficus Elastica
Ficus Elastica 'Ruby'
Ficus Ginseng
Ficus Microcarpa
Fiddle Leaf Fig
First Aid Plant
Fishbone Cactus
Five Holes Plant
Flaming Katy
Flaming Sword
Flamingo Flower
Flamingo Lily
Flamingo Plant
Florist Kalanchoe
Flowering Cactus
Freckle Face
Freckle Plant
French Peanut
Friendship Plant
Garden Ivy
Garden Rose
Gardenia Jasminoides
Giant Bird Of Paradise
Golden Cane
Golden Neon Pothos
Golden Pothos
Goldfish Plant
Guiana Chestnut
Guzmania
Guzmania Bromeliaceae
Happy Leaf Pothos
Hardy Elephant's Ear
Hardy Elephant's Ear
Hawaiian Ti Plant
Haworthia
Haworthia Rafiki
Heart Leaf
Hedera Helix
Hedera Helix Variagata
Hedera Hibernica
Heptapleurum Actinopyllum
Hobbit Jade
Horrida Plant
Horse's Tail
House Plant Cuttings For Propagation
Hoya Carnosa
Hurricane Plant
Hylotelephium Sieboldii
Hypoestes Phyllostachya
Inch Plant
Irish Ivy
Jade Plant
Jade Plant
Java Fig
Java Tree
Java Willow
Jelly Bean Plant
Jungle Boogie
Jungle Bush
Kalanchoe Blossfeldiana
Kalanchoe Delagoensis x Daigremontiana
Kleinia stapeliiformis
Korean Rock Fern
Lace Fern
Laceleaf
Lady Fern
Lake Ball
Lamb's Tail
Lemon Geranium
Leopard Lily
Lipstick Plant
Little Hogweed
Love Plant
Lucky Bamboo
Madagascar Jasmine
Maidenhair Fern
Malabar Chestnut
Malayan Banyan
Maranta Kerchoveana
Maranta Leuconeura
Maranta Marisela
Mason Congo Sansevieria
Measles Plant
Medicinal Aloe
Medicine Plant
Mexican Breadfruit
Milk Barrel Cactus
Miltonia Orchid
Ming Aralia
Mini Philo
Mini Swiss Cheese Vine
Missionary Plant
Mistletoe Cactus
Money Plant
Money Tree
Monkey Jars
Monstera
Monstera Adansonii
Monstera Deliciosa
Monstera Minima
Moss Ball
Moss Rose
Moth Orchid
Mother In Law's Tongue
Mother Of Thousands
Musa
Musa Basjoo Tropicana
N'Joy Pothos
Nemantanthus Gregarius
Nematanthus gregarious
Neon Devil's Ivy
Neon Pothos
Nepenthes Alata
Nephrolepis Exaltata
Never Never Plant
Night Blooming Cactus
Octopus Tree
Odontoglossum Orchid
Oilcloth Flower
Old Man Cactus
Oncidium Orchid
Opuntia Microdaisy Albata
Orchidaceae Phalaenopsis
Oxalis Triangularis
Pachira Aquatica
Pancake Plant
Pansy Orchid
Parasol Plant
Parlor Palm
Parlour Palm
Pass-it-along Plant
Passiflora Caerulea
Passionflower
Patio Rose
Peace Lily
Peace Lily
Peacock Plant
Pearl and Star Plant
Pelargonium Zonal
Peperomia Deppeana × Quadrifolia | Peperomia Tetraphylla
Peperomia Polybotrya
Peperomia Prostrata
Peruvian Apple Cactus
Philodendron
Philodendron 'Monkey Mask'
Philodendron Hederaceum
Philodendron Minima
Philodendron Scandens
Phoenix Canariensis
Pickle Cactus
Pickle Plant
Pilea Depressa
Pilea Mollis
Pilea Peperomoides
Pilocereus Azureus
Pincushion Euphorbia
Pink Jelly Beans
Pink Pork and Beans
Pink Splash
Pink Violet
Pitcher Plant
Polka Dot Begonia
Polka Dot Plant
Polyscias Fruticosa
Polystichum Tsussimense
Portulaca Umbraticolata
Portulacaria Afra Mediopicta
Pot Belly Fig
Pothos
Prayer Plant
Provision Tree
Purple Rain Plant
Purple Shamrock
Purple Wood Sorrel
Rabbit Ears Cactus
Rabbit's Foot
Rabbit's Tracks
Radiator Plant
Raindrop Money Plant
Raindrop Pilea
Rattlesnake Plant
Red Rhipsalis Cactus
Red Rubber Plant
Rhapidophora Tetrasperma
Rhipsalis
Rhipsalis Agudoensis
Rhipsalis Agudoensis
Rhipsalis Heteroclada
Rhipsalis Horrida
Rhipsalis Occidentalis
Rhododendron Inga
Ric Rac Orchid Cactus
Ric-Rac Cactus
Rosa
Rosary Plant
Rosary Vine
Rough Fern
Rubber Plant
Saba Nut
Sago Palm
Saint Barbara's Sword
Saint Paulia
Saint Paulia
Sansevieria Ehrenbergii
Sansevieria Trifascia
Sansevieria Trifasciata
Sarracenia
Satin Pothos
Savannah Geranium
Schefflera Arboricola
Schlumbergera Bridgesii
Scindapsus Pictum Argyraeus
Scindapsus Pictus
Sedum Morganianum
Sedum Rubrotinctum Variegata
Senecio
Senecio Herrianus
Senecio Rowleyanus
Senecio Stapeliiformis
Shark Fin Plant
Shark's Tooth Philodendron
Silver Dollar Plant
Silver Jade Plant
Silver Pothos
Silver Vase
Small-Leaved Fig
Small-Leaved Rubber Plant
Snake Plant
Snake Plant
Snake Tongue
Spanish Moss
Spathiphyllum
Spathiphyllum wallisii
Spear Sansevieria
Spider Plant
Spider Plant
Spiderwort
Spineless Yucca
Split-leaf Philodendron
Spotted Begonia
Star Plant
Stephanotis Floribunda
Stick Yucca
Stranging Fig
Strelitzia Alba
Strelitzia Nicolai
Strelitzia Reginae
Streptocarpus Saxorum
String of Beads
String of Hearts
String of Pearls
String of Tears
String of Turtles
Strings
Surprise Miltoniopsis
Sweetheart Plant
Sweetheart Plant Brazil
Swiss Cheese Plant
Swiss Cheese Vine
Sword Fern
Syngonium Erythrophyllum
Syngonium Nephphytis
Tailflower
Tears Pilea
Thanksgiving Cactus
Ti Leaf
Tiger Tooth Philodendron
Tillandsia
Tillandsia Ionantha
Tradescantia Albiflora
Tradescantia Commelinaceae Multiflora
Trailing Jade
Tropical Laurel
Tropicana Palm
Trout Begonia
True Aloe
Trumpet Lily
Trumpet Pitcher Plant
Trumpet Plant
Turtle Strings
UFO Plant
Umbrella Tree
Urn Plant
Variegated Chain of Hearts
Variegated Entangled Hearts
Variegated Laurel
Variegated Rosary Plant
Variegated Rosary Vine
Variegated Rubber Plant
Variegated String of Hearts
Vriesea splendens
Vuylstekeara Orchid
Wandering Dude
Wandering Jew
Wax Plant
Weeping Fig
Weeping Laurel
Whale Fin Plant
White Bird Of Paradise
White Crane Flower
White Flowered Wild Banana
Wild Banana
Wild Cape Banana
Yellow Palm
Yucca Elephantipes
Zamioculcas Zamiifolia
Zantedeschia
Zanzibar Gem
Zebra Basket Vine
Zebra Cactus
Zebra Lipstick Plant
Zebra Plant
Zebrina Pendula
Zigzag Cactus
Zuzu Plant
ZZ Plant
ZZ Plant
Harley Jennings
Harley Jennings is a renowned indoor plant expert with over 15 years of hands-on experience working with some of the UK's top botany and garden centers. Harley's passion for indoor plants blossomed early in his career, leading him to become a trusted authority in the field. He has spent years nurturing plants, researching the best care practices, and sharing his extensive knowledge with fellow plant enthusiasts.
Harley is the author of the comprehensive guide "The Complete Guide to Indoor Plant Care," where he combines his wealth of experience with a deep love for greenery. This guide provides readers with everything they need to know about indoor plants, from selection and placement to watering, feeding, and troubleshooting common issues.
In addition to his writing, Harley plays a pivotal role in the development of the Botanic Beam app, a revolutionary tool that offers plant lovers a wealth of information in one convenient place. The app simplifies plant care, providing tailored advice, reminders, and expert tips to help users create thriving indoor gardens.
Outside of his professional life, Harley enjoys urban beekeeping, finding a unique connection between nurturing plants and supporting local ecosystems. His relatable, down-to-earth approach makes him a favorite among both novice and experienced indoor gardeners. Whether through his guide or the Botanic Beam app, Harley Jennings continues to inspire and educate, helping people transform their homes into green sanctuaries.